INTRODUCTION:
Welcome to the sprawling, mind-blowing universe of Warhammer 40,000 (often simply referred to as 40K). If you’re a newbie just venturing into this lore-rich realm, or a seasoned vet returning after a prolonged hiatus, sit back and let this beginner-friendly guide sail you smoothly through the uncharted waters of Warhammer, reigniting or fuelling your fascination for this amazing game. This article will provide a detailed break-down of the thrilling world of 40K, its gameplay, what you need to start, helpful tips, handy resources, and common jargons.
WHAT IS WARHAMMER 40,000?
Warhammer 40,000 is a tabletop miniature war game created and produced by the British company Games Workshop. Set in a dystopian future of the 41st-millennium, 40K envelops a vast universe where various races and factions battle in an unending war. It’s a mixture of sci-fi, fantasy, and horror genres providing players with an immersive role-playing experience.
The planet-controlling Imperium of Man, the ancient yet technologically advanced Eldar, the ferocious and uncontrollable Orks, are just a few of the numerous factions players can choose and lead into battle against their foes. Your journey into the 40K world pits you with strategic decision-making, creative miniatures painting, and above all, lots of fun.
HOW TO GET STARTED:
To dive into the world of Warhammer, start from the basics.
1. Pick a faction: Each faction in Warhammer 40,000 has its unique lore, aesthetics, and playstyle. Investing some time in reading about them will help you relate to your chosen army and enhance your gaming experience.
2. Purchase a Starter Set: This is the simplest and most cost-effective way to start. A starter set includes miniatures, necessary rules, and guidebooks.
3. Understand rules: The rules guide provided in your set will help you get a fair understanding of gameplay, dice play, movement rules, army setup, etc.
4. Assemble and paint your miniatures.
5. Play your first game: Start with a small escarmouche to get a feel of the game. You will gradually understand the strategies.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY:
To kick-off your Warhammer journey, you will need:
1. A Starter Box: Contains everything you need to start including miniatures, rules booklet, dice, and ruler.
2. Models: Miniatures representing your army.
3. Guidebooks: Warfare rulebooks, Codex (book for individual army detailed strategies and lore).
4. Dice and Ruler: For determining outcomes in the game.
5. Paint: For adding colors to your grey miniature army.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS:
1. Don’t rush: Take your time to understand the game mechanics, miniatures assembly, and painting.
2. Start small: Initially, playing with fewer miniatures will help you understand the gameplay.
3. Invest in a painting starter set: It has all the required paints and brushes.
4. Enjoy the journey: Assemble and paint at your own pace. It’s a part of the Warhammer experience.
5. Join a local gaming community: Get involved with the community for tips and game nights.
HELPFUL RESOURCES:
1. Warhammer-community.com: Official news and updates hub.
2. YouTube channels: Like Warhammer TV, Tabletop Titans, etc. offer great beginner guides and painting tutorials.
3. Communities: Reddit’s r/Warhammer40k, Warhammer forums provide a platform to discuss and learn.
4. Tools: BattleScribe for army building, Citadel Colour for painting.
GLOSSARY:
1. Miniatures: Small models representing the game’s characters.
2. Dice: Used to dictate game actions.
3. Faction/Army: Distinct race or group you can play.
4. Codex: Faction-specific guidebook.
5. Points: System to balance armies.
NEXT STEPS:
Congratulations, with this, you’ve taken your first step into the vast Warhammer 40K universe. It might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but don’t worry, with each painted miniature and game played, it will get simpler and all the more exciting! Visit a local hobby shop or gaming store, pick your first starter set, and jump into the grim darkness of the far future. Now gear up for an incredible journey of vivid imagination, strategic battles, and a thriving worldwide community of dedicated hobbyists. Happy gaming!
